Poker machines are a prevalent source of gambling losses for Australians, with their losses nearly double that of people in the US. According to a report by the Grattan Institute titled “A better bet: How Australia should prevent gambling harm,” Australians lose an average of AU$1,635 (US$1,100) through slots and betting, compared to AU$809 (US$544) for Americans. The report suggests banning gambling ads and implementing mandatory pre-commitment loss limits for online gambling and poker machines. It also calls for a gradual reduction in the number of available poker machines in each state.
The Chief Executive of the Grattan Institute, Aruna Sathanapally, criticizes the gambling industry for its addictive products and urges politicians to regulate the industry to prevent catastrophic consequences such as job loss, bankruptcy, relationship breakdowns, and even suicide. Although the government is considering steps to protect Australians, there is reluctance to introduce a blanket ban on gambling ads. Instead, a proposal for a partial ban has been suggested, which would restrict ads online, during children’s television shows, and live sports broadcasts.
Sathanapally believes that a partial ban is insufficient and advocates for a loss limit to mitigate gambling harms. She argues that a loss limit would prevent individuals from experiencing significant losses and emphasizes the importance of protecting individuals from financial ruin due to excessive gambling. The location of slot machines in Australia is identified as a significant risk factor, with machines scattered across suburbs and towns rather than centralized in casinos.
The report highlights that 93% of Australia’s 185,000 poker machines are located outside of casinos, making them more accessible and increasing the risk of harm. Disadvantaged communities are particularly vulnerable, with as many slot machines in these areas as in the rest of Australia combined. Residents in the poorest fifth of communities in New South Wales lose an average of AU$1,524 (US$1,025) per year on pokies, compared to AU$922 (US$620) for those in the most well-off fifth.
Overall, the report underscores the need for stricter regulations on gambling in Australia to prevent further harm to individuals and communities. The emphasis on reducing the availability of poker machines, implementing loss limits, and banning gambling ads reflects a commitment to addressing the negative impact of gambling on Australian society.